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DIY Vertical File Organizer Tutorial

DIY Vertical File Folder Organizer

In this tutorial you will learn how to make your own vertical file folder organizer to match your classroom theme. It’s not difficult and it’s very inexpensive but you do have to follow the steps carefully to get it spaced evenly.

Supplies

Designer duct tape — design to match your theme

Designer file folders — design to match your theme OR you could glue scrapbook paper to the front of regular file folders

Spray adhesive — this is not absolutely necessary, you could use regular glue but it is quick and easy

File Folder Organizer Directions: Step 1

First, take the folder that will be on the bottom of your organizer and open it. Then, place the second folder inside the first. You will want to space the second folder up far enough so that a piece of paper sitting in the bottom pocket won’t cover the top of the second pocket. Once you have your second folder positioned where you want it, make a line with a pen or pencil along the bottom so you will know where to apply the glue. Next, cover the inside of the first folder with your spray adhesive above the line. Finally, firmly press the second folder in place. Continue on in this manner until you have the desired number of pockets for your hanging file organizer. The one pictured here has only three pockets but you can make one with more pockets.

File Folder Organizer Directions: Step 2

Once you have all of your pockets glued in place, fold down the tabbed front of each pocket and secure with glue. If your folders are thick you may need to cut the tabs off instead.

File Folder Organizer Directions: Step 3

Next, we will begin preparing the hanging part of the organizer which is a “ribbon” or strap made from duct tape. Cut two strips of duct tape to your desired length and lay sticky side up on a flat surface. You could just use one strip if you don’t want a bow at the top.

File Folder Organizer Directions: Step 4

Then you will fold each side of the tape in towards the middle. When the strips are complete, use a stapler to attach them to the back of the top folder by sliding your stapler inside the top pocket.

File Folder Organizer Directions: Step 5

Add strips of duct tape along the sides of the organizer to create the pockets. Then, add a strip of duct tape across the top of each pocket. Now papers can be inserted into each pocket upright. You can also add labels to designate the contents of each pocket.

There you have it, an easy, do-it-yourself file organizer to hang on the wall of your classroom that you can customize to match your classroom decor!

About Vanessa Levin

Welcome to Pre-K Pages! I'm Vanessa, a Pre-K teacher with more than 20 years of classroom experience.
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I'm Vanessa Levin, an early childhood teacher, consultant, public speaker, and author. I was born to teach! I believe learning should be fun! Here at Pre-K Pages, you can find hands-on lessons, themes, activities, and printables for preschool, pre-K, and kindergarten classrooms.

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About Pre-K Pages

I'm Vanessa, a Pre-K teacher with more than 20 years of classroom teaching experience. Here at Pre-K Pages, I'm committed to helping teachers just like you teach better, save time, and live more by providing you with everything you need to create a fun and engaging learning environment, lesson plans, and activities for your little learners. As an early childhood trainer, I have spoken to thousands of teachers in person at popular early childhood conferences such as Frog Street Splash, I Teach K! and NAEYC. I was honored to receive the 2012 CCAEYC Trainer of the Year Award. My work has been featured in Scholastic Teacher magazine and on popular websites like BuzzFeed.